The FBI has issued an alert about a popular Barbie doll containing a hidden video camera it says could be used to produce child pornography – but stressed that the toy has not been linked with any reported crimes.

Steve Dupre, an FBI spokesman, said the alert, which was issued last month, was meant only to advise law enforcement agencies not to overlook Mattel's Barbie Video Girl during searches.

The alert was sent out by the bureau's Sacramento office and was then accidentally sent to some members of the media, Dupre said.

In a written statement, the FBI said: "The alert's intent was to ensure law enforcement agencies were aware that the doll – like any other video-capable equipment – could contain evidence and to not disregard such an item during a search."

The FBI also said there had been no incidents of the doll being used in any way other than intended.

The toy has an LCD screen on its back and shoots video from Barbie's perspective through a lens hidden in its necklace. It can be connected by a USB cable to a TV or computer and records up to 30 minutes of footage.

Mattel said child safety was the company's priority.

"Mattel products are designed with children and their best interests in mind," it said. "Many of Mattel's employees are parents themselves, and we understand the importance of child safety."

Gerrick Johnson, a toy industry analyst with BMO Capital Markets, said the doll was popular and both boys and girls liked the camera.

Media attention "is starting to build, but I really hope it doesn't", he said, adding: "I think it is a very clever product – kids like making videos and uploading things to the computer."

Jim Silver, an industry analyst and editor at Timetoplaymag.com, said the controversy had been overblown. "It's a doll, for Pete's sake," he said.